I was looking for a place to chrome the 2 ovals of the instrument cluster bezel, the process is called vacuum metalizing. Specifically I was looking to get the ovals re-chromed on the bezel from a 1970 model, as this was the only year the chrome ovals had a wider area of chrome than those on the 71-77 bezels, which had just the thin raised line in chrome. Personally I just think the 70 model bezel looks better. Most just take a silver paint marker and paint the ovals and call it a day. The quotes below were to vacuum metalize (chrome) the ovals on the bezel and detail meaning to repaint the surrounding area. Keep in mind, those still offering the service, can also re-chrome the center dash AC vent and pretty much any piece of plastic you wish to have look like chrome. At one time there were many companies to choose from, sadly, the list of vendors has gotten small. Below is a list of the companies that once did, or currently offer vacuum metalizing services and the price I was quoted to have the instrument cluster bezel restored. If you know of other vendors, please share. 1. Coat Of Chrome (www.coatofchrome.com) – Don Pirre, Quote was $350 2. Instrument Specialties (https://www.instrument-specialties.com), Thomas, Quote was $349, 3. GCAR (http://gcartrim.com) – Glenn Bauman, Quote was $210 4. THE WINNER (for best price), Vacuum Orna-Metal Inc. - Frank Chester, Quote was $156 5. Shine On Me Restorations – Norm Huie, primarily does dash work for Ford Falcons - No Quote, but did send a list of other companies to contact. 6. Chrome Tech USA – Owner Retired, no longer in business 7. Mr. G’s Fasteners – No longer offers vacuum metalizing service. 8. MMMetalizing – No longer offers vacuum metalizing service on dash trim Below are the 2 photos I sent to each asking for a quote. Notice the ovals on the 1970 cluster bezel which were once chrome, have now turned white. I have shipped this bezel out to Frank Chester of Vacuum Orna Metal and will follow up this post with photos of the restored bezel once it arrives. I just thought perhaps this information would help others who may consider having vacuum metalizing done in the future.
I sent my center vent in and had it replated. The company that did it is now out of business. But, it goes to show you how NICE they look when redone.
I ended up getting one from Jordan that actually had chrome under the vent louvers themselves. I found this out when the the black paint began to flake off while cleaning it. The original chrome/paint on the frame rubbed off on my fingers, so I just left it off. I now have chrome louvers in a black frame and it looks pretty good!
